Maison Law represents the loved ones of car accident victims in Bakersfield. Losing a loved one in an accident can turn your world upside down. It can also impact your family in a number of ways, depending on the deceased individual’s income, care, and companionship.
At Maison Law, we know no amount of compensation can make up for the loss of your loved one, but it can bring you a sense of closure and assist with the financial strains associated with the untimely death of a loved one. Contact Maison Law today for a free consultation and to learn what options are available to you.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Fatal Car Accident in Bakersfield?
If your loved one unexpectedly lost their life in an accident, and you relied upon them for financial support, it is advised you seek a reputable attorney to help you manage the legal complications of a fatal car accident. At Maison Law, the first thing we’ll do is file the necessary claim on your family’s behalf. Next, we’ll build your case to establish the need for a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, then we will represent you in court.
However, bear in mind, most insurance companies typically do not want wrongful death claims to be settled in court. A jury-dictated outcome can end up costing them far more than what they could have settled for outside of court.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit after a Fatal Accident in Bakersfield?
California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60 specifies the individuals who may file a wrongful death lawsuit. Those parties include:
- The deceased person’s spouse or domestic partner
- Children of the deceased, including stepchildren
- Parents of the deceased
- Dependent minors living in the deceased person’s household
- The deceased’s personal representative
- People who would be entitled to the property of the decedent if they did not create a will
If the deceased had no surviving children, parents, or spouse, then those close to the deceased may qualify to file a wrongful death claim.
Potential Settlement Amounts for a Fatal Car Accident
Since every case is different, it is difficult to determine what your case is worth, but there are ways to get an idea of what your wrongful death claim could be worth. The objective of a settlement is to compensate you and your family members for the losses they’re experiencing due to their loved one’s death. Here is a list of the most common damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death claim:
- Burial and funeral expenses for the decedent
- Potential income earned from the deceased
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium (claim to be filed by spouse or children for loss of love and companionship)
If you’ve suffered the loss of a loved one due to a careless driver in Bakersfield, the accident attorneys at Maison Law are here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through this difficult time. Let us protect your right to compensation, so you can grieve without legal burdens. Contact Maison Law today to see what options are available to you.
FAQs
Q: How long do I have to file a fatal car accident claim in California?
A: Two years. The statute of limitations in California allows the victims of the deceased to file a wrongful death claim within two years of the date of the accident.
Q: Is a wrongful death the same as a survival action?
A: No. A survival cause of action is different from a wrongful death because it does not compensate the family for their losses.
Q: What if I can’t afford a fatal car accident lawyer?
A: At Maison Law, there is no upfront fee for our services. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
Contact a Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Bakersfield
If you’ve lost a loved one due to the carelessness or wrongful act of another, we can help. At Maison Law, we understand how difficult of a time this can be for your family and we’d like to get you the compensation you need for your loss. Contact a Bakersfield wrongful death attorney today at Maison Law. Our consultation is free and you don’t pay a cent until we’ve won your case for you.
